Christopher “Chris” Barnes, a veteran radio journalist with a career spanning more than four decades, passed away on April 15, 2026, at the age of 66.

In his approximately 45 years of broadcasting in markets ranging from New York, NY and Washington, DC, to Cape Cod, MA, Sheboygan, WI, and Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, Chris routinely established himself as a reliable source for concise, no-nonsense reporting. He held a variety of on-air roles including anchor, reporter, and news director, notably spending much of the 1980s and ‘90s as co-host, news director, and news anchor of WPXC Pixy 103’s morning show, becoming a familiar and trusted presence across Cape Cod and the Islands.

Chris’s career began in upstate New York in Poughkeepsie and later included stints at Newsradio 570 WSYR in Syracuse, XM Radio, and Fox News Radio, among others. He worked as part of the launch team for CBS’s all-news station, WNEW, and hosted “The Chris Barnes Situation,” an innovative drive-time talk show for WEEU 830 AM in Reading, PA. Known for his distinctive voice, quick wit, and dedication to delivering the news with clarity and integrity, Chris earned the respect of colleagues and audiences alike.

Chris was a graduate of Christian Brothers Academy (Class of ‘78) in Lincroft, NJ, and earned his degree in Communication Arts from Marist University in 1983.

He was predeceased by his father, Melvin E. Barnes. He is survived by his beloved mother, Marjorie H. Barnes, age 101, and his son, Alexander, as well as numerous cousins and extended family members.

Originally from Little Silver, New Jersey, Chris most recently resided in Reading, Pennsylvania.

Chris’s long career and passion for broadcasting left a lasting impact on both his colleagues and the many communities he served. He will be remembered for his contributions to radio journalism and the countless listeners who welcomed him into their daily lives.

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